One complaint that is shared by many fathers is that they are not respected. Some fathers think that family life would be better if they were shown a little more respect. However, respect is not a personal entitlement!

It is true that God's people are commanded to respect those that God has placed in authority over them. Fathers meet that qualification. But there is also another component of respect. Respect is best won by action. Hear what Hebrews says about respecting fathers:

Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of spirits and live! (Hebrews 12:9)

This tells us that fathers were respected because they were faithful to discipline their children. Therefore, respect should be given by those holding a particular office. Also respect can be won by faithfully administering that office. Note, however, that here is no basis for one to demand respect because of his performance.